Praxis

Shopping Blitz made its debut appearance at the 2013 Agenda NYC. Agenda is an LA-based trade show that showcases the best of the best in the streetwear and alternative sports industries. The marriage of these two segments is an exciting group of hybrids brands that often surpass the originators. Located in a chic warehouse in SOHO’s fashion district, the show carried a coolness vibe that didn’t take itself to seriously, a tough feat in an image driven industry.

Agenda was home to a different kind of trade show attendee. Suits and ties were traded in for graphic tees and flat brim hats. Instead of execs with briefcases and laptops, it was veterans of the biz with skateboards and tablets. The kind of company where the owner looks no different than that of their employees. In other words, our kind of place.

We went to support some of our established brands like Sanuk, Stance, Praxis and Marley to see what they had in store and broaden our own horizons. They continued to rock with new stylings and hot innovations. Highlights included Sanuk’s new Instaplay, an alternative to their popular yoga mat flip-flops. The new footbed is meant to energize feet and comes with the added bonus of being waterproof.

Big Boys like Fila, adidas and Reebok were in attendance, as well as industry standards like Skull Candy, Converse, Starter, Vans, RVCA, Stussy, DC Shoes and Burton. All offered up amazing offers as per usual. Spotted were the ever popular high-top sneaker that has moved from athletic to fashion in a relatively short span of time. Neon colors, tech-friendly clothing, active apparel and an overall vibe of NOW reigned supreme.

One of the best aspects of the show were all the smaller upstart companies that are still young enough to think outside the box and create exciting originals. Personal standouts included Ames Bros., whose t-shirts and award-winning designs have landed them clients such as Pearl Jam, Jack Black, John Mayer, Keith Urban and The Big Bang Theory’s Jim Parsons. HoodieBuddie, sweatshirts that include a 3.5mm headphone jack inside theirpockets for use with phones, mp3 players, etc. As well as, brands like Kidrobot, makers of killer limited edition art toys, signature apparel and pop culture accessories and Grenade who have begun to expand beyond their glove offerings.

Shopping Blitz is excited to move into the world of streetwear and look forward as always to bring our Blitzers the latest and greatest. Stay Tuned.